Aquarius Fishing

Aquarius Fishing runs the largest named sportfishing fleet on Cozumel, each boat with its own captain rather than a rotating pool of skippers. That matters: on this island the difference between a good day and a blank one is usually the man on the bridge knowing where the current line has set up.

What The Trip Includes

Charters are quoted per vessel with tackle and crew. Rates exclude a tip for the captain and mate, the mandatory federal fishing licence, and taxi fare to and from the marina, so budget for those separately. Four-hour trips run from $425 to $800 depending on boat, six-hour trips from $525 to $950 and eight-hour trips from $575 to $1,050. Additional anglers are $75 to $100 each.

Boat And Group Size

Eight vessels: Jean LaFitte, a 28ft Bertram for six with Captain Edwin Novelo; Cuates, a 29ft Topaz for six; La Marley, a 32ft Black Fin for six with Captain Pedro Erosa; Double Header, a 33ft Bertram for eight; Falice, a 38ft Hatteras for ten; Sea Rose, a 42ft Hatteras for twelve; and Vamonos, a 55ft Ocean Yacht for sixteen.

Good To Know

The peak window brings blue and white marlin and sailfish, with mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, kingfish and king mackerel available through much of the year. The operation also runs flats fly fishing for bonefish, permit and tarpon, which is a completely different day and worth asking about.

Getting There

Charters depart from Cozumel. Cruise passengers based in Playa del Carmen can use the ferry, which starts at 6:45am and runs back until around 9:00pm daily. Confirm your marina and boarding time when you book.